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Day Trip from Cartagena: Beautiful Rosario Islands Boat Tour

When I spent a week in Cartagena , I got to go on a Rosario Islands boat tour! The views were amazing, and I definitely recommend getting out on the water while you’re in Cartagena. And you can make a whole day of it and grab some lunch and drinks while you’re out!

Rosario Islands boat tour

The boat tour I was on was put together by Scarlet Macaw Trips, but there are lots of different Rosario Islands boat tour options you can choose from. I have heard some mixed reviews about taking public boat tours , so definitely do your research before you book a tour.

It’s about an hour boat ride to get to the islands, and then you can easily hop from island to island.

The Rosario Islands are an archipelago made up of 28 islands that are part of a national park along the Colombian Caribbean coast. Since they’re in a national park that helps protect a coral reef, they are well-preserved.

You can go snorkeling or scuba diving in the area if you want, or you can just relax on the water and take in the sights like I did! I couldn’t get over how bright and beautiful the water was everywhere.

You can ride by Pablo Escobar’s mansion ! It was a secret party house, and it’s now government owned and has fallen into ruin since it was abandoned.

Places to stop around the Rosario Islands

There are spots where you can drop anchor and go swimming off the side of the boat! There were lots of men in kayaks selling fresh coconuts so you could drink right out of the coconut. They were pretty persistent, so you have to be firm if you don’t want any and if you do, you can haggle prices with them. The group I was with got a few to try, and they were pretty good!

We stopped at an island for lunch and drinks, and it was great! The fish was very fresh, and coconut rice has become one of my new favorite things. And drinking out of a pineapple is always fantastic.

There were people there trying to sell us things or have us buy massages, so again, if you’re not interested, you have to be firm. There were several times when people would come up and just start massaging someone to see if they would pay for it, just to give you a head’s up!

So if you’re looking for a day trip from Cartagena, you can’t miss going on a Rosario Islands boat tour! It’s such a beautiful area to explore and a great way to spend a relaxing day on the water.

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12 Comments on Day Trip from Cartagena: Beautiful Rosario Islands Boat Tour

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Wow, Julia! 😍 This Rosario Islands Boat Tour looks like an absolute dream! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photos make me feel like I’m right there with you, soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Thanks for taking us on this virtual getaway. Definitely adding the Rosario Islands to my must-visit list!

I definitely recommend going in person!

Wow, the Rosario Islands look so beautiful! I have never heard of them before, but I will definitely visit when I can make it to Colombia! Thanks for sharing!

I hope you can go soon! 🙂

Ahh I miss the tropical island vibes! Drinking from a pineapple 🍍 looks great haha! I think i haven’t done that yet! Sounds like you had a great trip around Rosario Islands.

I did! I definitely recommend taking the trip! 🙂

Wow, such gorgeous photos! I bet this was an unforgettable trip! Thanks for sharing this tip, pinning it for future reference!

Thank you so much! 🙂

This looks lovely. I’ve never been to Colombia, but hope to one day. The water looks spectacular. That gorgeous blue color reminds me of Greece. I would love to snorkel around those reefs. Thanks for the great info.

I hope you can go one day, it’s an amazing place!

Wow! I had never heard of this place before. Your pictures are really beautiful. Thanks for sharing your experience.

Thank you! 🙂

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Cartagena, Colombia

Headed to Cartagena and wondering what you can’t miss? Here is my go-to Jetset travel guide to a perfect vacation full of dancing, drinking, and eating your way through this coastal Colombian gem.

You’ll come to Cartagena for its tropical Caribbean vibes, but you’ll be blown away by the historic stone-walled old city, the colorful colonial architecture and the uniquely Colombian culture. Whether your idea of a vacation is sipping the world’s best coffee on a bougainvillea-laced balcony, heading to a lush tropical island just minutes off of the city, or salsa-dancing until 6am in one of Cartagena’s famous nightclubs (My favorites are La Movida, Alquimico, La Jugada, or Cafe Havana), Cartagena, Colombia has a ton to offer everyone.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Cartagena

On the rooftop of Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa

There are two main areas to choose to stay in in Cartagena – the old city or the “new city”- the Miami-beach-like Bocagrande (which you can see is the area with the skyscrapers below) . They each have their pros and cons. From Bocagrande, you can step out of your hotel or Airbnb directly onto the beach, which is pretty ideal. But, that being said, the city beaches are nothing  compared to the beaches outside of the city (like Baru or Rosario), so I don’t think this is a strong enough pro to stay here over Old Town.

The gorgeous stone-walled Old City is Cartagena’s principal attraction – and  is where the best restaurants and cafes, and all the nightlife is, so if that’s where you’re going to be spending all of your time, it may not make sense to stay elsewhere.  Old town is packed with colonial architecture, beautiful churches and plazas, delicious restaurants, and Cartagena’s famous colorful mansions with their overhanging balconies… It’s definitely where you want to be.

Hotel Casa San Agustin

Honestly it doesn’t get any better than this hotel if you’re looking for where to stay for luxury in Cartagena . This boutique luxury hotel is one of the Leading Hotels of the World (which in my experience are ALWAYS amazing). Hotel Casa San Agustin is stunning in every sense of the word. It’s composed of three beautiful white houses, connected with bright clay rooftops, and a gorgeous view of the clocktower.

Hotel Casa San Agustin has only 20 rooms and 10 beautifully-decorated suites in traditional Colombian style and sprawling balconies for sipping your Colombian coffee in the morning. The hotel incorporates modern amenities while maintaining pristine colonial architecture and a beautifully authentic vibe of Cartagena’s rich history. It is absolutely one of my favorite hotels I’ve stayed in in the WORLD, and a must if you’re willing to splurge on your vacation in Cartagena.

Standard rooms are beautiful, but the premium rooms with private plunge pools or jacuzzis are definitely worth the splurge. Rates from $400-$500 per night. Hotel Casa San Agustin .

Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa

I LOVED this hotel. The location is awesome – right at the entrance to the old city and right by the boat docks (making it easy to get out to the Rosario Islands for a day trip!). The service was impeccable, and I loved the rooftop and the dreamy courtyard. Can’t beat this spot for a go-to Cartagena hotel. 

My fiance Kenny (wearing his brand Kenny Flowers ) living his best life at Hotel Charleston

Tcherassi Hotel & Spa

This boutique hotel from acclaimed Colombian fashion designer Silvia Tcherassi is set in a 250-year-old restored colonial mansion with original stone-walled rooms and private balconies. There are only 7 rooms, but 4 pools, creating an intimate atmosphere like none other in the city. Rates from $200-$300 per night. Look at how beautiful this hotel is –  Tcherassi Hotel & Spa .

Shop my Colombia dress here

The best places to stay in Cartagena with a group –

The Best AirBnBs and VRBO’s in Cartagena for Groups

Luxury 4 bedroom villa in cartagena´s walled city with pool and rooftop jacuzzi.

Located next to plaza Fernandez Madrid and across from Santo Toribio church. It combines modern finishes with colonial Colombian architecture creating an unforgettable property. It has a large private pool as well as a modern rooftop jacuzzi. All of the well appointed large bedrooms have spacious en suite bathrooms. 

Check rates here

Old Town Group Villa

La Casa Que Besa El Mar is located in the old city of Cartagena de Indias. It sits unobstructed, with views of the historic Spanish Colonial wall set just in front of the ever expansive ocean. Facing west, the sunset is visible each and every day, with optimal viewing from La Casa’s spectacular mirador (roof terrace).

Other hotels I like:

Townhouse boutique hotel & rooftop.

This charming and tropical boutique hotel is the perfect choice for young 20-somethings traveling to Cartagena and hoping to be in the heart of the action. It’s decorated head-to-toe by young Colombian artists (the pictures don’t do it justice but CHECK OUT THIS PLACE !!!), so cool. Each room has vibrant and fun paintings of flamingoes, toucans, or other tropical touches. Each of the hotel’s eight bedrooms and 3 suites are individually styled, and their rooftop, open the public from 8am-1am, offers panoramic views of the walled city, two plunge pools, and a lot of icy cocktails. Their slogan “fancy doesn’t have to be boring” says it all – Townhouse is millennial luxury at its finest. 

Rates are around $175/night for a standard double room. Book here.

Blue Apple Beach House

If you’re looking for a beach retreat right outside of the city, Blue Apple Beach House is your spot. This chill beach club slash hotel is owned by the same people as Townhouse in downtown, and is a super-cute, relaxed, very Colombian beach getaway. 

Intercontinental Cartagena

If the Miami-like bocagrande is more your style, the Intercontinental offers 360 degree ocean views and a swoon-worthy ocean-facing infinity pool and a bar filled with delicious fruity cocktails that will have you wondering if you should ever leave your hotel.

Sophia Hotel Cartagena

This modern elegant hotel in the heart of Cartagena’s Plaza de Aduana offers fashionable rooms, a modern aesthetic and a pretty unbeatable rooftop.  It’s a little oasis in the heart of the city. Rates from $200-$300 per night. Book at  Sophia Hotel Cartagena

What to do in Cartagena

Explore Old Town Cartagena

You can’t leave Cartagena without exploring the beautiful stone-walled Old City.

Strategically located on the Caribbean coast, Cartagena was historically one of Colonial Spain’s most important ports. Stone fortresses and gigantic walls up to 30 meters thick and 11KM long line the city, which was so well protected after many pirates (most notably Sir Francis Drake) in the 16th Century attempted (and often succeeded) in sieges of the wealthy port city’s riches.  Strolling the historic Old City is like stepping back in time and losing yourself in the romantic historic plazas and vibrant, colorful cobblestone streets.

One of my favorite streets (and most colorful) is right where the restaurant Carmen is. Just type in Carmen to your google maps to get there!

Go emerald shopping!

Did you know that Colombia produces the highest quality emeralds in the world? If you, like me, love your jewelry, do not leave Colombia without emerald shopping! My favorite spot in Cartagena is Lucy Jewelry – let them know I sent you and maybe they’ll give you their best price 🙂 

photo from Equities.com

SEE MORE: Where to Find The Best Instagram Spots in Cartagena

What islands are the best to visit around cartagena.

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Take a day trip to Islas Rosario

There are so many breathtakingly beautiful islands accessible by boat from Cartagena, and a beach day to the islands is a popular day trip for locals and tourists alike! The most popular islands to visit are the Islas De Rosario, a beautiful group of 28 islands about an hour off the coast of Cartagena.

The easiest way to book a boat is to go through your hotel (who can recommend you to one of the many best island resorts). My favorite spot in Islas Rosario I’ve been to so far has been Gente Del Mar island (pictured here)! It was so gorgeous, and the food and drinks were amazing! 

Eteka Beach Club

If you’re looking for Tulum-meets-Bali vibes in Colombia, the super-instagrammable Eteka Beach Club is a great spot super close to Cartagena. Loved this place!!

We were super impressed by the food here, too!

Take a day trip to Isla Barú

Baru is another great island option from Cartagena (in fact, if you have enough days you should definitely do both Baru and the Rosario Islands!!!). It’s way more casual, and divey, than the Rosario islands, but the colorful beach shacks and pina colada stands with the beautiful turquoise water make it an amazing day trip.

And I’ll let you in on a little secret that most people don’t realize —  Isla Barú, is even accessible by an easy 40-minute cab ride over a bridge! Making it super easy to get to verus the islands only accessible by boat, since, sometimes, when you don’t want to worry about boat schedules! So an easy (and cheap!) cab ride out to the island is just what you want. Negotiate a rate with the cab driver ahead of time, and tell him you’d like him to wait there at Playa Blanca until you are all ready to go home (it should be around $50 for the entire day – which divided if you’re going with friends is not bad at all!) 

Then, once you’re dropped at Playa Blanca, hop on a motorbike to take you to the end of the road where the beach is. There will be lots of locals offering to take you down to the end- it’s definitely worth the $1 ride versus a long walk! When you get to Playa blanca, get onto the beach and turn right and keep walking. My favorite place to post for the day is this beautiful colorful beach bar called The Wizard. If you’re early enough, you and your friends can reserve one of their hammock beach lounge areas, or just a few chairs where you can order frozen beach drinks and yummy bites all day long.

Isla Baru is anything but fancy… It’s less of a luxury island and more of a local, divey beach day getaway, but the water is gooorgeous, the beach bars are colorful and fun, and the vibe is bustling. It’s an awesome spot to explore for the day and get some sun.

Bike around town

Many of the resorts I recommend in this post (such as Charleston Santa Teresa and Casa San Agustin ) offer complimentary bikes to get around town! It’s my favorite thing to do in the mornings in Cartagena, before the crowds. 

Watch the sunset at Cafe del Mar

If your hotel doesn’t get a good sunset view, this touristy-but-great outdoor lounge and bar is perched up on Cartagena’s stone walls and offers a casual bar with an unbeatable sunset view. 

Where to drink & dance in Cartagena

this is my all-time favorite bar in Cartagena! 4 stories, a gorgeous rooftop, and way too many insta-worthy corners. We had so much fun here! HIGHLY recoommend.

There’s no better spot for dancing the night away in the hippest little spot in the historic district, La Movida is easily the best night club in Cartagena. 

Mirador rooftop 

this bustling rooftop is the place to be after the sun goes down. With a DJ spinning every night, great happy hour specials, and the colors of the city shining right behind the DJ booth, this is a great spot to kick off your night out in Cartagena. 

Where to eat in Cartagena

I hope yall like seafood, because Cartagena is seafood & ceviche central – and it is all SO good.

Carmen Cartagena

My favorite fine dining meal in Cartagena is easily Carmen. It has the most gorgeous tropical patio and the food is always extraordinary. Dine on dishes like octopus with chili pepper and tucupi tiger milk, or yucca croquettes with a liquid foie gras and black truffle center, or poached prawns with black bisque and creamy cilantro rice and crab cakes with plantain and wasabi mayo.

They have a restaurant in Medellin as well and it’s also unreal. The food at Carmen is so innovative, fresh, and AMAZING here, and the cocktails are even better. 

Ranked as one of the top 50 Restaurants in Latin America, Celele is a must-stop on any trip to Cartagena. It’s creative Caribbean fusion food and many people will tell you it’s the best restaurant in Colombia – you have to go!!!

Alma Restaurant

If you’re looking for a romantic meal in Cartagena, this is your spot. Located inside the dreamy Casa San Agustin hotel, Alma is delicious, and the atmosphere is absolutely perfect, complete with live music playing the courtyard.

La Cevicheria

This is the one place you’ll see on every single travel guide to Cartagena. This always-busy seafood haven is located on an adorable cobblestone street and rose to fame thanks to Anthony Bourdain. Everyone will tell you to go there but what they won’t tell you is there’s a just-as-good-if-not-better cevicheria down the block called El Boliche also. Head to either one and all your Caribbean ceviche dreams will come true.

Pizza en el Parque

if a casual pizza overlooking one of Cartagena’s parks is what you’re feeling, Pizza en el Parque serves up some delicious pies on a gorgeous balcony. It’s cute, casual, and delicious.

Juan Del Mar

This spacious restaurant & bar in the heart of old town is like a rite of Cartagena passage. The menu is full of Colombian delicassies, as well as some international and Italian favorites. Book a table on the upper terrace if you want to soak up the best view of the square (this is where Colombia’s president eats when he’s in town!) The restaurant is busy year round and features a live band 7 nights a week.

For good Italian food in a casual atmosphere in Cartagena, head straight to Diva Pizza. I almost always crave Italian no matter where I am in the world, so headed to this place when I read the incredible reviews. It was casual, but the food is anything but. I was SO impressed by their food (especially the lasagna, oh my goodness!!!)

For delicious tapas, yummy cocktails and a great ambiance, Pata Negra is your spot. Go with a group and order just about anything on the menu – they’re shared plates and you can’t go wrong – it’s all so, so good.

RPG Pizzeria Boutique

This adorable local pizzeria was my favorite meal in Cartagena! The location is right off of a main square, allowing for a quiet tucked away dinner. The menu features to-die-for thin crust pizzas, sandwiches, salads and more. Ask them if you can sit outside and they’ll set you up with an awesome people-watching spot on the cutest cobblestone street.

Know before you go

Is it safe to travel to Colombia?

Is it safe to travel to Cartagena? Is Cartagena safe? Is Colombia safe?

Yes, yes, and yes! Please don’t let fear of Colombia’s rocky past stop you from exploring this WONDERFUL country! Yes, Colombia was entrenched in a civil war up until the 1980’s, and I know that this is a main concern for many people who are wondering just how safe the country is today. But I want to say that I didn’t feel unsafe for a second in Cartagena. Of course, like anywhere, it’s important to stay aware and be smart about your surroundings, but I think that if you do so, you won’t feel unsafe, even if you’re traveling by yourself.

There is still a US government issued warning against travel to Colombia, which reads: 

Tens of thousands of U.S. citizens safely visit Colombia each year for tourism, business, university studies, and volunteer work. Security in Colombia has improved significantly in recent years, including in tourist and business travel destinations such as Bogota, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Medellin, and Cali.

However , violence linked to narco-trafficking continues to affect some rural and urban areas. Despite significant decreases in overall crime in Colombia, continued vigilance is warranted due to an increase in recent months of violent crime.

My travel philosophy has always been that dangerous crimes can happen anywhere. They happen every day in my home city of San Francisco , and crimes are commonplace in many of my favorite travel destinations, and many places at home. It’s not uncommon to hear news stories or read travel cautionary tales and feel extremely nervous about traveling to a certain place, but I am a big believer in not letting that fear of danger get in the way of seeing the world. While everyone’s travel experiences are different (and one negative experience or secondhand negative experience can forever skew your feelings toward a certain place), I think it is vitally important to see the world with an open mind, while staying optimistically cautious and aware, of course.

What do I need to be on the look out safety-wise in Colombia?

This all being said, a lot of people ask safety-related questions like, “should I wear my jewelry in Cartagena?” and to that I say it’s best to leave your expensive jewels at home, and be as bare as possible so as to not attract attention to yourself as a potential target to criminals. I would not wear fancy jewelry in Colombia, or bring name brand luggage (such as Louis Vuitton), etc. They call it ‘don’t dar papaya’ which translates to don’t give papaya, meaning don’t give yourself up as a flashy easy target for criminals. 

If you’re a guy traveling by yourself or with a group, please also be aware that there is a crime happening often in Colombia of Colombian women drugging foreign men to rob them at night. (crazy, I know! but please watch out!)

You also might see many signs in Colombia saying “SAY NO TO THE SEX TOURIST”, many establishments have these signs up and will flat out deny service to sex tourists, which is great. Sex tourism is unfortunately a trend in certain cities in Colombia, but there is a lot of active action happening against it making it a less than ideal place for these people to travel to, thank goodness. I only mention it so that you aren’t put off if you see one of these signs at a restaurant or hotel, this is a good thing!

Can I drink the tap water in Cartagena?

On the coast of Colombia, it’s recommended to buy bottled water (it’s very cheap!) as opposed to drink from the tap. But, theoretically, the tap water is supposed to be fine, that’s just the tip I’ve heard from other travelers.  You don’t have to worry about ice or vegetables or anything like that. In  Medellin , on the other hand, which is inland and a big city, it’s perfectly okay to drink their (very good!) tap water, and I drink it every day when I’m there!

Do I need to know Spanish to travel in Colombia?

I’m not going to lie, it helps a TON to know at least a little Spanish when you’re traveling around Colombia. The thing is, tourism is relatively new to this country, so it’s not like everyone is used to all of the tourism and English speakers. But isn’t that what’s so cool about a Colombian vacation?! Cartagena, of all the destinations in Colombia, is by far the most developed for tourism and much easier to get around as a gringo (even if you don’t speak Spanish) than other destinations in the country. But it would definitely help to brush up some on your Spanish before your trip (I’m a big fan of using Rosetta Stone for this!)

And, don’t worry, by the time you leave Colombia all of your high school Spanish will be flowing out of you like loco. Olé!

Will I need a power converter for traveling to Colombia?

If you’re traveling from the US, nope! Cartagena and all of Colombia uses the same power outlets as the USA. If you’re coming from Europe, however, you’ll want to bring a converter ( like this one ) with you.

What season is best to travel to Cartagena?

Cartagena is wonderfully hot year-round. With May being the warmest month (average temperature around 85 °F) , and January being the “coolest” (averages around  80 °F ). The dryest months are December through April and t he highest rainfall occurs in October.  The high season for tourists is during Christmas and New Years (note that prices for accommodation and just about everything hikes about 3x around this time and it can be very difficult to find vacancies in hotels- after all, the whole country wants to flee to the beautiful coast for their vacation!).

Will I need a visa to travel to Colombia?

Nope! A Colombia tourist visa is not required for citizens of United States of America for a stay up to 90 days.

What should I pack for a trip to Cartagena, Colombia?

It is HOT in Cartagena. And when I say hot, I mean HOT. Like, 90 degrees plus humidity hot. And it’s year round. It’s dryest December-March, but you’ll still be sweating every time you walk outside (which I love…. especially when you’re escaping the cold winter up north!)

You’ll definitely want to pack some sunscreen ( here are my favorite sunscreen picks ) and a hat to protect yourself from the Caribbean sun!

Here are some of my favorite picks for Cartagena outfits:

What to pack for him for Cartagena:

This classy Cartagena-inspired button down shirt

PS – Join the JETSETTERS secret facebook group to get & give travel recs to our Jetset Christina community and connect with other jetsetters!

Follow @JetsetChristina on Pinterest!

Enjoy your trip! It’s one of my very favorite cities.

PS – Follow @JetsetChristina on instagram to keep up with all of my travels!

& don’t forget to like jetset christina on facebook .

Check out my post on 10 Things You Can’t Miss When Traveling to Colombia

*Please note that this post contains affiliate links to some hotels! If you choose to book one of the hotels I recommended, I would so appreciate you using these links to do so! An affiliate link basically just means that at no cost to you at all, I get a small kickback from the booking site for bringing them your business! I never recommend any hotels that I don’t 100% LOVE & think you will, too! If you have any questions at all, please see my advertiser & affiliate policy page here .

Check out these other Colombia posts:

The best places to visit in Colombia

Medellin Colombia Travel Guide

Reasons why Colombian coffee is the best in the world

Where to stay with a group in Cartagena

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The Perfect White Dresses & Outfits Every Bride-to-Be Needs for Every Event Leading Up to the Wedding

WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Tanja Valentic

Christina, Your pictures are beautiful and your trip sounds amazing. Thank you so much for sharing this post. I am planning a trip to Cartagena in March and I was wondering if it is safe to bring a nice camera (DSLR camera) or do you recommend bringing a small camera ? This is kind of a dumb question but what did you do with your stuff to keep it safe while you were at Isla baru? Sorry for all the questions!

Christina Vidal

Hi Tanja! Thanks so much for reaching out! It is definitely safe to bring a nice camera. I didn’t feel unsafe at all and I had my camera with me in Baru! If you’re by yourself, you can ask a trustworthy bartender or tourist to watch your stuff while you go in the water, or just take turns going in the water if you’re with someone else! Have such a great trip to Cartagena! xx

Christina your description of Cartagena is perfect – the colors and architecture are very appealing –

Thomas Espeute

Hey Christina!

Your pictures are gorgeous, and your dress is matching perfectly with the colorful walls ;). Cartagena is lovely and perfect for a Jetset Trip!

The old city center is really safe, and there are so many options to sleep, eat and drink! Also, there are other beaches than Isla Baru 🙂 – You can travel to Cholon island or sleep one or two nights on Isla Grande. You should try to get there. I’m sure you will love it!!!

And I love the Getsemani district where there are the street arts. And the vibe on Trinidad square at night is awesome! And then you go out at Bazurto social Club (great live music) or Mr. Babiila (crazy bar)

Oh yes!! thank you so much for all the tips! Going to get to Getsemani, Isla Grande and Cholon next time I head to Cartagena, for sure!!

Patricia Davies

[* Shield plugin marked this comment as “0”. Reason: Human SPAM filter found “oy” in “comment_content” *] I loved Cartagena de Indias! I stayed at the Intercontinental Cartagena and I am planning to go back. Really enjoyed your post and your pictures!

Thank you so much!

Donna M Brown

Thanks Christina for sharing great stuff on Cartagena. I am also a travel blogger and share a list of Things to do in Cartagena Tour. Thanks again Christina for this wonderful write up!

Shawndra Warren

Super helpful, I am heading to Bogota and Cartagena in two weeks. I am going with a friend and my husband is super nervous this post set him at ease and gave me some great tips for my upcoming adventure. Those colorful buildings are calling my name!

Sandra McCoy

Awesome read. I am heading out to Colombia in June for the birthday so super excited. The hotels you recommended are they in the old town area?

Most of the ones here are! I definitely recommend staying in the Old Town area!! Everything is walkable and the views are unbelievable 🙂

Hi Christina! I am going for a bachelorette and your info is so so useful, I love it all!!! The hotels you mentioned, do you know if they let you go and use the pool/bars or amenities or eat at their restaurants if you are not a guest ? they all look so beautiful?

Hi Sara! So fun. I don’t know for every one, but usually they’re okay with it! I’d just shoot a quick email to the hotel and find out!

Adam McConnaughhay

Hey, this is a great travel guide for Cartagena. And your pictures are terrific, they capture the colors of Cartagena perfectly.

Amazing! Did you take out cash before you arrived or did you use the ATMs there/use your card at restaurants/shops? What would you recommend? Thanks!

Great question! I like to have some cash on hand before I arrive (especially for taxis, etc) and there are definitely plenty of places that don’t take card in Colombia. But, the more upscale bars and restaurants will take card.

Hey Christina was born in Colombia, am adopted y have foster parents that live in Colombia as well have one of my foster sisters that live there as well with her family. Haven’t been back over there since coming 2 America at the age of 2, definitely want 2 go back y see where my life started have just so much desire 2 visit y know there are lots of changes but am just so interested 2 go back home since have a family there. When is the best time 2 go y bout how long is the flight? Look forward staying in touch y getting some gr8 pointers from u, t2u soon Christina – Danny

Hi Danny! That’s so great to hear that you want to go back. It is a beautiful country!!! I think any time of year is great in Colombia. The highest season is winter in the states – so november-january. It’s beautiful weather down there then!! The flight isn’t too bad! Actually only 2.5 hours from Miami. So depends where you are coming from in the states.

Hi Christina I have all your post and I really like. I am exciting because of my travel to Cartagena and I want to make a little question to you. When you talk about take a cab ride, you pay 50 (you are talking about dollars right?) and is it sure to take a taxi for a long way in colombia?. PD: Thank you for your post It’s very helpful for us.

Hi Pamela! Yes I paid $50 USD to get from central Cartagena to Baru island. It was about 45 minutes to an hour away! & thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad it’s helpful!

If someone was going to stay in isla baru what area of the beach would you suggest? Thanks!

I’ve never stayed on Isla Baru but I’ve heard this hotel is amazing – https://www.booking.com/hotel/co/las-islas.en.html?aid=1590369&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1 They probably have the best most tucked away area of beach!

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Hi!! I love your post, I will soon visit Cartagena, please a question… Where exactly is the purple house of your photo? I love your pic..

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Hi Christina! I love this blog post, it’s very helpful as I plan a mini-moon for this June. I’m curious about your dinning recommendations and if you recommend making reservations ahead of time, or if most of the places you listed are okay for walk-ins? Thank you!!

Hi Ana! Thank you! Most should be fine to walk in (or have your hotel book you a reservation week of) – if you’re going to Carmen I would make a reservation at Carmen ahead of time!

I have been reading your blogs and googling Cartegena all day at work! Can you give us an insider scoop of how much things are in Colombia… average for a cocktail / beer / soda / pizza / steak dinner? I think you mentioned this once in your stories but I don’t remember! I’ll have to go through your Insta stories when I get home! Thank you! I am dying to book a trip!!

Hi! Of course! Everything in Colombia is definitely a more affordable price point than in the US! A dinner for 2 at a fancy restaurant in Colombia usually ends up around $100, including drinks but obviously can be more if you get a nicer bottle of wine, etc. Dinner at a more casual restaurant can be super affordable. Cocktails out will cost $8-10 at a good spot. Beer is like $3-5.

hello Christina, I love yout your travel guide. I have questions about when you visit Isla rosario. is the Gente Del Mar is beach club or is hotel ? do you prefer to do day pass or go by yourself with guide of the hotel. I will like to visit exactly that point where you were more I need more details please thank you. I see that you travel a lot. I love your pictures.

Hi! We went for the day, but I believe you can stay overnight there too. I prefer to stay in old town Cartagena and go for the day! We went via a boat that we rented for the day.

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Practical Guide to Cartagena’s Gorgeous Rosario Islands

When you planned a trip to Cartagena on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, did you have in mind any of the following:

Sunshine and white sand beaches?

Crystal clear and turquoise waters?

Piña coladas, margaritas, or mojitos with a side of Caribbean sea views?

Some time to kick back and relax?

The best place to find all this is without a doubt a visit to the nearby Rosario Islands!

The beaches in the islands are by far the best beaches near Cartagena and some of the best in all Colombia. They are basically a must do on any trip to Cartagena.

In the decade plus I lived in Cartagena, I had the chance to visit the Rosario Islands many times. At least a couple times a year we did a bit of staycation or touristing in our home town.

They are just so pretty, we couldn’t help but keep going back, and the beaches here are so much nicer than those in the city.

I also had the opportunity to visit the Rosario Islands in various ways.

From private boat rentals (our favorite way when we could get a group together), to day passes at resorts, to shared tours, to overnight stays at several of the resorts and ecolodges, we’ve done it all.

Here, I’m going to use all that experience to help give you the best tips for visiting the Rosario Islands of Cartagena, Colombia for yourself.

So, read on for a complete guide to visiting the Rosario Islands from Cartagena , including how to get there, the merits of a day trip vs staying overnight, the best tours, and the best hotels so you don’t miss this must see destination and are sure to enjoy them to their fullest and have an unforgettable time in Colombia’s Rosario Islands!

Ultimate Guide to the Rosario Islands – Contents

• Overview and Quick Tips for Visiting the Rosario Islands from Cartagena
• Doing a Private Boat to Rosario Islands
• Best Day Tours to the Rosario Islands
• Day Passes at Beach Clubs and Resorts
• Spending the Night in the Rosario Islands

Packing List for the Rosario Islands

• Practical Tips for the Islas del Rosario
• FAQs about the Rosario Islands

Last Updated: March 13, 2023

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I am a member of Amazon Associates, LLC and other affiliate programs and earn from qualifying purchases made after clicking those links. There is never any additional cost to you. To learn more please consult our Disclosure Policy.

Overview and Quick Tips for the Rosario Islands

I like to give as much detail as possible with in depth guides, especially for places like the Rosario Islands in Cartagena that I know so well.

However, I know that sometimes, you just want some quick tips and may not have time to read about all the details.

So, in this first section I’ll go over the most important information give some quick tips for planning a visit to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena and try not to be too long winded. This section will also be a good introduction for those looking to read on and get even more details about the Rosario Islands below.

First off, what are, or maybe better ,where are the Rosario Islands?

The Rosario Islands are an island chain roughly an hour to an hour and a half off the coast of Cartagena. Called the Islas del Rosario in Spanish, they are a tiny chain of coral islands, some with barely more than a few square yards area. You can even see tiny little houses on their own private islands!

The waters here are really pretty and the entire area is actually a national park.

The islands are also fairly undeveloped. Originally settled by fisherman, there is one small community on Isla Grande plus a handful of hotels, eco-lodges, and private homes scatted around on the islands.

In my opinion, the best way to experience the islands is a private boat to the Rosario Islands. With a private charter, you have a lot of flexibility in how you spend your day and can stop at several stops for swimming, snorkeling, hanging on the beach.

Or you can just have a dance party on your boat all day!

Whatever you want, you can do. Plus you get to enjoy all the lovely scenery a lot more than on a shared tour or just going to one beach area and back.

While, yes, it’s the most costly way to visit the Rosario Islands, it’s surprisingly affordable, especially if you can get a group of 10 plus people together. Even if you can’t though, this is one of the things that is totally worth splurging a bit on.

You can check out prices for a private boat here .

You can also do shared boat tours to the island if you can’t put together a group or have the budget for a private boat. My top pick for this would be doing the catamaran tour of the Rosario Islands , which includes lunch and snorkeling.

There are also multi-island boat tours , that go on boats similar to the boats chartered for private rentals. While not quite as snazzy, they offer a good way to see multiple places at a much more affordable prices.

For those looking to snorkel at the reef and enjoy the neat scenery around the islands, one of these tours on boats from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands should be your top choice.

If you’re more interested in having lots of time relaxing on a beach, then you could opt for a day pass at a beach club or hotel, many of which also have overnight accommodations.

There are some great little eco-resorts and lodges out in the Rosario Islands. It’s worth keeping in mind there isn’t much else out here and you are an hour plus boat ride away.

So, I only recommend staying in the islands if you have 4 or more nights in Cartagena. Doing so is terrific if you have the time though!

Most of the hotels and beach clubs in the Rosario Islands are located on the largest island, appropriately named Isla Grande, or the smaller islands clustered around it like Isleta.

In fact, Isleta is where our favorite place IslaBela is located, It has lovely bungalows and one of the best beach areas in the islands.

You can also buy a day pass there (use the discount code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount!). Those first two photos at the very top of the post is at IslaBela’s main beach area, which I think is the best overall beach area in the Islas del Rosario.

There are a number of other places around this general area to stay as well, many of which also offer day passes.

I’m going to discuss some more ideas in the more detailed sections below but you can also take a glance at some other options on Isla Grande and the vicinity .

There are also options, including some more luxurious options in Barú. Isla Barú, or Barú Island in English, is often included as part of the Rosario Islands.

That’s sort of incorrect, as technically Barú was a peninsula that only became an island after the Spanish cut the narrow Canal del Dique across it, separating it from the mainland.

However, parts of Barú are included in the protected area of the national park and there are some gorgeous beaches here.

Perhaps the most well known of these is Playa Blanca. I have a guide to Playa Blanca , and you can click that link to read more about it.

However, due to overcrowding, I don’t recommend it anymore and I would consider it a different type (and not as nice) of an experience as what you get in the Rosario Islands.

Now, there are some less crowded beaches and a few lovely resorts near the tip of Barú that I would categorize as more like the idyllic islands.

Hotel Las Islas and the new Sofitel Calablanca offer great luxury style resorts in this area of Barú.

So does the Isla del Encanto , which we loved when we stayed there and also offers day passes. Since they are closer to the mainland, these are definitely the best choices for those looking for nicer places to stay with A/C and amenities like pools.

That about covers the basics in this overview with the most important information you need to know to visit the Rosario Islands.

Below, I’ll discuss in more detail all those options mentioned above as well as discuss more in depth how you should determine if it’s worth spending the night or not, and even share a few more insider tips based on our many visits.

If you’d like even more extra expert assistance and would like to plan a customized trip with an agent, fill out this form , and my partner agency BnB Colombia Tours will contact you about planning an all inclusive, tailor made itinerary for your Colombia trip starting at $200 a day per person.

In Depth Guides to the Best Ways to Do the Rosario Islands

If you’ve made it this far, first thanks for reading! Second, let’s get into some more nitty gritty details of the Rosario Islands.

The way I see it there are four main ways to do the Rosario Islands. They are:

• Rent a Private Boat and See the Rosario Islands in Class – The Best Way!
• Do a Shared Boat Day Tour to the Rosario Islands
• Do a Day Pass at One of the Rosario Islands Hotels
• Spend the Night at One of the Hotels in the Rosario Islands

Susana and I have done all of these.

While we have not done every single tour or been to every hotel and beach club, we have been to enough to where I feel confident our experience can help you get the most out of the Rosario Islands.

Hopefully you’ll find some tips or gleam some information here that you won’t find in the cookie cutter travel advice websites out there or the same parroted advice in Facebook groups and travel forums.

For each option mentioned above, I’m going to discuss why it’s a good way to do the Rosario Islands, give you some suggestions for the best ways to do it, and give you an idea of what to expect.

Now just to be clear, that list above should not necessarily be seen as a ranking.

Well, doing the private boat is absolutely the best way if you can swing it.

However, as I mentioned above, if you have more than 4 nights total in Cartagena, spending the night in the Islas del Rosario is totally worth it and I think you should absolutely do it!

If you only have 4 or fewer nights, I’d recommend staying in town the whole trip and doing one of options 1-3.

By the way, if you still need to make your Cartagena hotel reservations, check out my guide to the best boutique hotels and luxury hotels in town or my in depth guide to the best areas to stay . Those on a tighter budget might also want to check out my picks for the best Cartagena hostels .

But, I digress.

Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each of these best ways for how to get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena.

Option 1: Why You Should Do a Private Boat to the Rosario Islands

This is hands down the best way to do the islands!

Really and truthfully, you should try your best to figure a way to do a private boat to the Rosario Islands.

Even if you have the time and want to spend the night, do this and have them leave you where you’ll stay and get the best of all worlds.

We’ve done this a bunch of times, and it is surprisingly affordable .

Of course that’s with the catch that you do probably need to put together a group to make it cost effective.

Generally, you want a group of 7+ to get a good value here, and if you can get 15-20 people together, you can get a really nice boat for not too much per person.

In all honesty, the per person price will probably be cheaper than a day pass or shared tour.

Why is this the best way to do the Rosario Islands?

Well, you’re on your own boat, duh!

Obviousness aside, besides just being on a boat, what’s nice about doing it this way is you have a lot of flexibility.

Want to go snorkeling all day? Perfect!

Want to head to beaches where there are fewer people? You got it!

Want to do a full day booze cruise rocking your favorite jams cranked up on the stereo? No problema!

I would actually recommend doing some combination of the above.

Most rentals have a sort of preset suggested itinerary but will also let you customize the day to your liking, usually including 3 or 4 stops.

We have done private boat rentals a bunch of times with friends. During that time, we sort of settled on a nice route that has a little bit of everything.

Usually what we do is head out to the area known as La Piscinita first.

Here you can swim out and snorkel over the nearby reef.

I’ll be honest, the snorkeling in the Rosario Islands is good, not amazing.

The reefs here are unfortunately dying, but you can often see some colorful fish hanging out.

Nearby there is another good swimming and snorkeling spot where there is an underwater plane that works well as an alternative first top or a second stop.

By the way, there is a popular myth, propped up by lots of tour agencies and guides, that this plane was one that belonged to Pablo Escobar and went down in the islands while running drugs.

That is completely made up.

The plane was actually put there by a marine biologist as part of a doctoral thesis.

I had heard this was the true story a while back and went in search of evidence to be mostly frustrated at the lack of it. I did manage to track down a listing for the thesis but unfortunately the text is not published online. It is cited near the bottom of page 35 in this thesis as well.

Now, there is a variation that claims that the plane may have been owned by Escobar because the Colombian government did sink some planes used for drug trafficking off the coast that had been seized, including at least one in the Rosarios. You can read about that in this article .

However, that was 1998, 4 years after the thesis was published, so that story doesn’t add up either.

Speaking of Escobar myths and the islands, there is another older myth that Escobar had a giant mansion in the islands where he would have massive parties and live the good life.

This is also entirely false.

The supposed Escobar estate belonged (and as far as I know still does) to Antonio Turbay, cousin of a former president. At some point they built out a big, swanky hotel.

However, the hotel was shut down by the authorities due to its environmental impact and has basically become an abandoned ruin. If you want some evidence for that, this article discusses a visit by authorities to the property (known as Casa Blanca) in 2013, clearly identifying Turbay as the owner. This video also has an interview with a native of the islands that states the same.

Unfortunately, both of these myths have been perpetuated by tour guides taking some creative liberties. Then they get repeated by bloggers and youtubers. Even some larger publications like Business Insider and The Daily Mail have published articles repeating them. Even Discovery Channel did a bit on it. Ughh, you’d think maybe these outfits would do their homework, but I guess this is the brave new world we are in.

The truth is, these myths are so commonly parroted that I had to kind of go down a rabbit hole to try to disprove them, and well, now I’ve taken you down that rabbit hole too.

So please, don’t perpetuate this myth!

Ok, out of the rabbit hole and back to discussing the islands.

The plane is neat to see it in the water below. So, if it interests you, be sure to include it. The area around here is also pretty and has some neat scenery.

In fact, that is one of the things I really like about doing the private boat to the Rosario Islands. Since you get several stops, you get to see more of the islands and really enjoy the scenery.

It’s so neat seeing some of the tiny private islands that have nothing but one little house on them, all surrounded by the gorgeous waters.

Party spot Cholón is another popular spot to include as a stop on a private boat tour.

Here, you’ll find lots of other boats pulled up and a big party.

If you want to have dance parties on your boat between dips in shallow waters, it’s the perfect spot for it. We used to go here a lot and a handful of Susana’s girlfriends and gay guy friends absolutely love it. Like, if it was only up to them, we would just go here all day.

It is fun, and the truth is it is a cool little spot with the covered areas in the water that is about waist deep and all the boats pulled up around it. I always thought this would be a sweet spot for a reggae concert, although you’ll mostly hear reggaeton.

I feel like we’ve kind of outgrown it or maybe just done it too many times though. Or maybe we’ve just seen other people puking in the water one too many times.

Also, like getting here at 10 am usually leads to a day of a bit too much imbibing because well, there’s not a whole lot else to do. Just to be clear, I’ve never puked in the water!

We started coming here after stopping for swimming, staying for a while, and then heading somewhere for lunch, and actually the last time or two we did the islands we skipped it entirely, opting to just have the dance parties on the boat in a less crowded spot where we weren’t competing with other tunes.

It does get crowded during high season and weekends. Similar to Playa Blanca, I think it’s become a bit of a victim of its own success.

Also, it’s worth noting that there have been a few accidents where the mix of booze, along with lots of swimmers, boats, and jet skis in close proximity have combined for tragic consequences. So, do be extra careful swimming outside the central circle area of boats.

You can learn more about what to expect at this Rosario Islands party spot in my full post on Cholón .

Just to be clear, don’t let me deter you from partying at Cholón all day! Like I said, we enjoyed it many times, and especially if you can avoid busy days, it is neat. I would suggest at least stopping by even if you’re not that interested.

Plus, another big advantage of doing the private rental is if it is too crowded or you’re not really feeling it, you can just head somewhere else!

The island known as Agua Azul is a good stop to enjoy the beach and get lunch.

We have made this our lunch spot of choice on our last few trips out to the Rosario Islands. Just make sure you double check prices for lunch as it has become a more popular stop and I’ve heard of prices going up.

Finally, you can also head to Playa Blanca for lunch and chilling in the afternoon. I would strongly recommend heading to the far end of the beach where it’s less crowded if you do though.

We used to do this a lot because it was cheaper, but with ever increasing crowds (not to mention prices), I actually generally recommend just avoiding Playa Blanca all together now.

Generally private boats will include a cooler full of ice, sometimes with some courtesy waters or beers thrown in.

Be sure to take along some water along with your booze and try to get the earliest start time you can so you can take full advantage of the day!

You’ll generally meet the boats at the marina in Manga (a short taxi ride from the Walled City), the docks by the Walled City, or at small docks in Bocagrande.

Option 2: Shared Boat Day Tours to the Rosario Islands

Ok, let’s get this out of the way to start. You should avoid like the plague the guys selling shared day tours in town on the street!

These tours are the cheapest way to do the Rosario Islands, but generally, they consist of lots of people being packed onto little boats, with lots of upsells during the day, in an experience that isn’t ideal.

In full disclosure, I’ve never actually done this standard Rosario Islands tour myself, because all I’ve heard is that it’s not worth it.

However, Susana has done it and agreed, it’s not worth it.

Besides being packed into the boat, at the first stop they had the choice of paying an additional entrance fee to enter the oceanarium or hang out on a tiny mediocre beach. There they could pay for chairs if they wanted them or they could pay more to go snorkeling.

This was how the whole day went. They did go to other, nicer places, but overall it was a lot of waiting around and a subpar experience.

So, I don’t recommend these tours. You’re so much better off just spending a bit more and doing a nicer tour.

However, there are some other good options for doing day tours that are better options than these standard, not so good tours. If you’re on a tight budget, I’d recommend skimping somewhere else and opt for either one of these tours or a day pass at a decent hotel or beach club.

I’ve actually put together an entire post on the best day tours to the Islas del Rosario , which you can check out at that link. However, here I’ll run down a handful of the top options I’d encourage you to consider, starting with what I think is the very best option for a shared tour on a boat to the Rosario Islands.

Best Shared Boat Tour – Sailing on a Catamaran

The Bona Vida Catamaran offers a nice day tour to the Rosario Islands that includes snorkeling gear and lunch.

In my opinion, sailing on the catamaran is the best way to do the islands in a shared boat tour.

We’ve done their sunset tour and loved it. You can read about it and see some more photos of the boat in my review .

The boat is great and has lots of space, so no worries about being crammed in or having a bumpy ride.

Plus, you get to sail and enjoy a bit of a unique way to get out of the islands and enjoy all the scenic views on the way to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena.

The only downside to choosing this tour as your way to get to the Rosario Islands is it does not stop at any beaches. So, if you need to feel some sand between your toes, you’ll want to consider one of the other shared tours mentioned below or a day pass at a hotel or beach club.

I’d definitely recommend doing this tour if you want a day trip to the islands on a boat and can’t swing the private and can live without laying on a beach. You can book ahead of time on GetYourGuide or on Viator .

Some Other Ideas for Shared Tours on Boats to the Rosario Islands

I think the catamaran is the best choice for a shared day trip , but here are some other decent options for shared tours on boats from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands. Keep in mind that there are more options for day passes at specific beaches discussed in option 3 below.

• Shared 4 Islands Tour : This is a good choice for those that want to be on a boat, see several spots in the islands, and need that fix of sandy beach. These tours stop at several stops and include lunch. They mimic the traditional standard tours but are on nicer, larger boats and with smaller groups.
• Shared Cholón Boat Party Boat : If you want the party experience at Cholón but can’t put together your own group, these shared party boats that include lunch and an open bar could be a good option and will let you have a fun time with other travelers.

Option 3: Day Pass at a Rosario Island Hotel or Beach Club

If you would prefer to spend less time on a boat and more time with your toes in a sandy beach, then doing a day pass at a beach club or resort out in the islands is another great way to do a day trip to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena.

Generally, day passes include the ride on the boat to the Rosario Islands and back, lunch, and either chairs with an umbrella or a beach bed.

Some may include a welcome drink or the option for an all inclusive package with open bar or additional snacks.

There are places that offer more relaxed atmospheres as well as more party atmospheres.

Below, I’ll go over a few of the best options for day passes out in the Rosario Islands, starting with my top recommendation at our favorite place we’ve been to in the islands.

Best Place for a Relaxed Beach Day: IslaBela

If you’re looking for a nice relaxed beach to spend the day, I suggest IslaBela.

They have a great beach area, one of the very best in the islands. It’s fairly large and there aren’t a lot of rocks. There is a bit of seaweed, but it’s not too bad, and the sand is softer to the left hand side of the beach.

The water here is good for swimming and snorkeling. I saw lots of fish by their dock. It’s also usually not as crowded as other popular beach clubs.

There are kayaks you can use, and the place is nestled up in a tiny bay that is just gorgeous (all the photos here with that blue roofed house on its own little island are from IslaBela’s main beach area).

I think they hit the right mix of having some music playing and some tasty drinks (we loved their margaritas) but also maintaining a mellow atmosphere.

I think this is without a doubt the top choice for those looking for a relaxing beach day. While there aren’t a lot of activities for little kids or indoor areas with A/C, I would consider it overall very family friendly while also being a good spot for couples and adults too.

It’s also one of my top picks for staying the night (more on that below), but you can book a relaxed day pass with our partners BnB Colombia (use the code ExploreColombia20 for a 20% discount!).

Some Other Relaxed Beach Day Pass Spots

Here are a few more good options for a more relaxed day at the beaches in the Rosario Islands.

• Isla del Encanto : With a nice pool and gorgeous beach area, Isla del Encanto is also great for a relaxed day in the islands. We spent a couple nights here and loved it. It is also very family friendly. Book a day pass here .
• Isla del Sol : This is another good spot that has a nice pool. The beach area is decent but a bit rocky. When we went here, we were able to do a very cool tour of the mangroves nearby. Book a day pass here .
• San Pedro Majagua : We’ve never been here but their beach area looks spectacular every time we pass it on a boat.
• Gente del Mar: Another place we have not been, but they have a neat location right on a little point on Isla Grande and photos look very nice.
• Luxury Island: Another place we haven’t been. We have gone by it on boats though, and they have a large beach area on Isla Grande. It’s one of the larger beach clubs.

Check out Bora Bora Beach Club for a Party Atmosphere

Bora Bora has long been a popular spot for those looking for a hip atmosphere for a day in the Rosario Islands.

They have gorgeous beach beds, a nice area for swimming, and always have a DJ.

We have not actually ever been here, but you can read a review of Bora Bora Beach Club here by someone who has. We have gone by it on boats and seen it from a distance at IslaBela. They do have a great looking beach area and a large space.

It looks like a lot of fun. A few Colombian celebrities have even been spotted here, and it’s definitely a popular Instagram spot.

The only caveat I’d say is I have heard some people disappointed by Bora Bora.

My understanding is you have to pay extra to reserve a first row bed overlooking the beach and that there is a special VIP area that you also have to pay more for, but that isn’t always clear to people. So, is the disappointment from unrealistic expectations and not reading the fine print or is it from false advertising? I’d say it’s probably a little bit of both, and I’ve heard even more people rave that they loved it.

So, I’d just advise making sure you are clear on what is and is not included when booking so you don’t have any false expectations. Do that and you should have plenty of fun at this famous Rosario Islands beach club!

It can get crowded, so it’s best to make reservations ahead of time. You can do so via Viator . You can also check out their smaller and more exclusive new place at Pao Pao Beach Club .

See more good day pass ideas both for shared tours and day passes at hotels and beach clubs at my post on the best day tours to the Rosario Islands .

Option 4: Stay at a Hotel in the Rosario Islands

Finally, if you want to go all out and really enjoy some nice rest and relaxation on your visit, why not spend a couple nights at one of the hotels in the Rosario Islands?

Besides being able to escape and disconnect a bit, you’ll have fewer people at the beach after the day pass visitors go home.

Plus, it’s tough to beat Caribbean island sunsets!

As mentioned above, I would only suggest spending the night in the Rosario Islands if you have more than 4 nights total in Cartagena.

Keep in mind, you’re a hour plus boat ride away. So, staying in the islands means you’re relaxing in the islands and not much else. You can’t head into town for the day or for dinner or to go dancing.

I would also recommend against spending your first or last night in the islands.

While it’s possible to hire private boat transportation, it is quite pricey. So, you’re better off getting the shared boats that depart in the morning and head back in the afternoon.

Therefore, unless you have a very early arrival or very late departure, I wouldn’t risk trying to get from the airport to the islands or vice versa. It’s way to much hassle for what is supposed to be some relaxed island time!

If you have 4 nights or fewer in Cartagena, it’s best to stick to doing one of the day tour options above so you have time to see everything in town and avoid all that hassle.

However, if you have more time, read on for some options for where to spend the night in the Rosario Islands.

Luxury Options

If you’re looking for nicer resort style properties in the Rosario Islands, there are three good options.

Las Islas has gorgeous private bungalows nestled in the mangroves here on the tip of Barú offer a amazing mix of rustic luxury. It’s on the pricey side but is arguably Cartagena’s most luxurious and most unique beach resort. Check prices and availability at Las Islas here .

Isla del Encanto also makes for a nice higher end option at a bit more affordable price. They have really nice rooms in townhouse style bungalows. We really enjoyed staying here and thought the service was great, the food and drinks were very good, and the room was gorgeous. The beach area is also really large and very nice.

You can read our review of it here or check prices and availability at Isla del Encanto here .

The new Sofitel Calablanca is also on Barú and looks very nice. It is actually probably the most like a large resort style hotel like what you would find in town. You can check prices and availability at the Sofitel Calablanca here .

Our Favorite Place (and Best Value): IslaBela

IslaBela is our favorite place in the islands and my pick for the best value for an overnight stay in the Rosario Islands.

Located on Isleta in the islands proper, not Barú, it has one of the best beach areas of any of the hotels in the islands and overlooks that gorgeous little bay.

The bungalows are very pretty and comfortable and feel very private.

They are actually located a short walk from the main beach area, and each has their own little private ocean view. While more rustic than the more luxury style resorts above, the room was still very comfortable and cozy.

You can read our review of it here or check prices and availability at IslaBela here .

A Few Other Ideas

Here are a few more idea for places to stay in the Rosario Islands.

Gente del Mar looks really good. I think they are a bit on the pricier side, but all photos of the place looks very nice.

Coralina Island has a neat area nestled up in the mangroves near IslaBela on Isleta. The only downside is there is not really a true beach here.

San Pedro de Majuagua has a gorgeous beach area, and the rooms and bungalows look very nice. I would like to stay here sometime.

Isla del Pirata basically has an island all to itself.

Finally, the fairly new and neat looking Centro Ubuntu offers a similar rustic but nice look like IslaBela.

Secreto Hostel is the best choice for those looking for dorms or more budget friendly accommodations in the Rosario Islands. El Hamaquero Hostal also has pretty favorable reviews.

You can see some photos and learn a bit more about all these options in my writeup on the best hotels in the Rosario Islands .

Obviously, you’ll want your beach gear for the Rosario Islands. Here, I’ll also share some ideas for what to take for your trip to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena.

• Ladies will want a fun bathing suit. This leaf print bikini would go great in the Caribbean vibes of the Rosario Islands. So would this cute one-piece . Susana has this coverup dress and loves it, and it’s perfect for the Islas del Rosario of Cartagena. This bag would also be great for both a day trip and could probably even work as an overnighter.
• For the guys, these palm tree board shorts are perfect for the Islas de Rosario.
• Good snorkeling gear will come in handy. My dad always tells me he loves these full face snorkels .
• I definitely recommend taking along a a good dry bag for the boat from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands.
• The Rosario Islands are coral islands and can be quite rocky. If you have sensitive feet, you might appreciate a good pair of water shoes . I like that the ones linked there are not goofy looking.
• I love my pair of bamboo sunglasses that fit in perfectly for a day in the Caribbean.
• Finally, you’ll want a good beach towel. These microfiber towels dry quick, making them perfect for travel. Plus they have a cool, retro look.

Practical Tips for the Islas del Rosario of Colombia

Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your trip:

• Be sure to take some cash. Some places for lunch and stuff might be able to take cards, but most still can’t. Hotels and resorts usually can but it may be worth verifying before going just to be sure. There are no ATMs in the Rosario Islands.
• The islands are 60-90 minutes away by boat and there is little real development out there. Be sure to take along any medications or other necessities you might need.
• Like most everywhere else in Cartagena, if you are buying something from a vendor on the beach or from a passing boat, be sure to negotiate and agree on price before. Remember there are no true free samples.
• There have been some accidents, especially at Cholón where lots of drinking goes on, so be sure to listen to your boat captain and watch out for other boats, doubly so if you’re doing a booze cruise.

Rosario Islands FAQs

Still have some outstanding questions about the Rosario Islands?

See if you can find the answers in the frequently asked questions below.

I’ve tried to include some additional info that isn’t covered somewhere above. As an added bonus, I’ve put in some of my favorite photos in the Rosario Islands that didn’t fit somewhere above too.

Are the Rosario Islands worth it?

Yes, the Rosario Islands are absolutely worth a visit! They have the prettiest clear waters and nicest beaches near Cartagena.

The only downside is they can be a bit pricey.

Still, they are worth spending a bit more to see and should be considered one of the must do activities in Cartagena.

What are the Rosario Islands known for?

The Rosario Islands are known for being a beautiful chain of islands off the coast of Cartagena on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. They feature a number of islands with resorts and ecolodges and are popular for overnight stays as well as day trips for their crystal clear waters.

Why are the Rosario Islands popular?

The Rosario Islands are popular for their crystal clear waters and relative lack of development. That makes them great for spending a day or a few relaxing days at one of the ecolodges or resorts. Boat day trips are also popular. Finally, diving and snorkeling are fun activities in the Rosario Islands as well.

Is there good snorkeling in the Rosario Islands?

The snorkeling in the Rosario Islands is good, not spectacular.

The waters are very clear and you can see some sea life. However, due to the decay of the reef, you won’t see tons of sea life.

Some good Rosario Islands snorkeling spots include the reef near La Piscinita and the submerged airplane. These are sometimes included on shared boat tours and make for good stops on a private boat rental.

How many islands are there in the Rosario Islands?

There are 28 islands that make up the chain. Most of them are tiny (in fact there are people with their own private island), but there are a few larger ones. The largest island is Isla Grande .

How far away from Cartagena are the Rosario Islands?

The Rosario Islands of Colombia are located about 100 km southeast off the coast of Cartagena . They take roughly an hour to an hour and a half to reach via boat.

How do I get from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands?

You will need to take a boat to get from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands. It is possible to reach Barú island, technically not part of the archipelago but part of the national park that includes the Rosario Islands by traveling overland.

Is the boat to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena bumpy?

The boat to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena can be bumpy. Usually, in the morning, it is pretty calm with minimal bouncing. However, in the afternoon sea currents often make the ride bumpy. For this reason, most boats leave the islands to return to Cartagena by 3 pm.

Are there flights to the Rosario Islands?

No. There are no public flights to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena or elsewhere.

Is there a ferry from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands?

No. There is no ferry from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands. Most people travel either on private boat rentals, shared boat tours, or boats owned by hotels and beach clubs that provide transportation.

Are there public boats from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands?

I have seen suggested elsewhere it is possible to get public boats to the Rosario Islands from the Bazurto Market or possibly from the docks by Centro.

I have not tried this, nor do I have much desire to do so to be honest, and I would not recommend it. Now, I do know there are boats to Playa Blanca and Barú from Bazurto, but again, I wouldn’t recommend doing that. They are there primarily to carry supplies and people that work on the beach. You should expect being crowded on a small boat without a clear departure time that leaves when full.

Whether you can do this out to Isla Grande as well, I’m not sure. I would think that yes, there is a way for the residents of the island to get back and forth from Cartagena, but I just don’t know enough about it to recommend trying it.

Can you sail in the Rosario Islands?

Yes. The little islands and reefs can make navigation a bit tricky if you’re sailing in Colombia , but you can certainly sail in the islands. There is not to my knowledge anywhere you can dock though, so keep that in mind.

Are the Rosario Islands safe?

Yes. The Rosario Islands are generally very safe to travel.

In the actual islands themselves, there is only a very small community of local residents, and they respect the privacy and safety of the hotels and resorts. Crime is virtually unheard of on the islands.

I would not recommend camping on the islands or walking around at night on your own due to the lack of public lighting and risk of trespassing, but you should not worry about robberies at the hotels and lodges on the islands.

The exception to this is at Playa Blanca, which I don’t consider part of the islands but some people do. Due to the large crowds and many non-native vendors, there have been robberies at Playa Blanca. If you spend the night at Playa Blanca, I’d suggest trying to keep valuables locked up, in Cartagena if possible.

The one other safety note is to be careful when swimming at crowded beaches, especially Cholón and Playa Blanca. Watch out for boats and jet skis. Also, never jump off a moving boat.

Finally, do be on the lookout for excessive charging by vendors .

This is especially the case at Cholón, Playa Blanca, Agua Azul, and from vendors on small canoes or boats selling things. Be aware there are no true free samples and be sure to always agree on price before consuming anything.

Which is the best Rosario Island to visit?

It depends.

The largest of the Rosario Islands is Isla Grande, where you’ll find most of the resorts and eco-lodges. Nearby Isleta usually is less crowded. Barú, which is technically a peninsula but often considered part of the Rosario Islands is another choice and can be reached over land and offers the well known Playa Blanca as well as some more exclusive resorts on the farther end of the peninsula.

See the above on my recommendations for actual places to go in each.

Ready to Plan Your Trip to the Islas del Rosario of Cartagena?

There you have it, a complete guide to visiting the Rosario Islands from Cartagena. If you do go, I hope it helped you plan and, more importantly, I hope you have a wonderful time.

I’d love to know which option you chose and about your experience in the comments below!

Cheers and Happy Exploring!

Did you like this post?

If you enjoyed reading about the Rosario Islands, you might also want to consider including a visit to their sister chain the San Bernardo Islands farther south. Likewise, San Andrés Island makes for a great addition to a Colombia itinerary for beach bums.

You’ll also want to make sure you check out the best sunset spots in Cartagena . You might want to head up the coast to the hip beach town of Palomino , the undeveloped beaches of Tayrona National Park , or get a break from the beach entirely and take in the fresh mountain air of Minca .

Planning your trip to explore Cartagena?

Do check out my guide to the best areas to stay in Cartagena . Not to mention, check out my list of 75+ things to do in Cartagena (spoiler: you’ll find the islands near the top!), see my picks for the best restaurants in Cartagena , and see my recommended Cartagena packing list .

And if you want some help planning your trip, do consider booking with my partner agency BnB Colombia Tours. They can design a perfect trip for you to Cartagena, the Rosario Islands, and everywhere else you want to see in Colombia. You can fill out the form here to start and inquiry and they’ll get back to you to plan the Colombia trip of your dreams.

Also, get a free planning checklist here .

10 thoughts on “Practical Guide to Cartagena’s Gorgeous Rosario Islands”

Do you need a yellow fever vaccine to go to the islands?

Hi Aaron, no, it is not required, although it’s often recommended. You can actually get it at the Dadis Health Office in Cartagena or at the Bogotá airport or bus terminal for free. If you are unable to get it, I wouldn’t worry too much about it though.

Hey! Wondering what you think about going to bora bora beach club vs Cholon as a solo traveler. I’d want to party/dance and meet people.

Hi Alyssa. Hmm, I think both are good options. If you can find a shared boat to Cholon, it might be better as you’ll be going as a group on the boat where as at Bora Bora, each reservation will have its own little beach bed so maybe a tad harder to mingle. Or, see if you can put a group together for either at a hostel or something.

So how do you get there one way to stay for a few days? Not mentioned in part 4.

Hi Toby. Best to ask your hotel if they have boat transportation (some do, some don’t, some charge for it, some it’s included) or if they work with a boat that stops at several places.

Thanks for the info. I was looking into Coralina Island, which looks great, but from what I’m seeing, it is not located on Isla del Pirata. Is this correct?

Hi Lea. Yes, this is a mistake in the article I need to fix in an update. It’s located on Isleta. We haven’t been there but have been to Islabela not far away and the spot where Coralina is has a gorgeous view of sunset.

Hey there, your discount code for the Rosario Island day pass which was your favourite has expired. Any chance of a new one?

Hi April! Yes. Actually, this is on my to do list to update. They just recently started offering readers here a better discount with the code ExploreColombia20! Thank you for the reminder!

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The 7 Cartagena Islands You Can't Miss

Cartagena is amazing, but locals say if you spend your whole trip on the mainland you're missing out. Why? You can easily access so many incredible islands off the coast. Locals recommend visiting these incredible Cartagena islands—from Cholon to Tierra Bomba, the Rosario Islands, and beyond. 

See a side of Colombia that most miss , by having a local plan your trip. Why see Colombia like a tourist when you could see it like a local? Learn more . 

The Rosario Islands

Tierra bomba, san bernardo, playa blanca.

Cartagena is known as one of the best places to visit in Colombia for good reason. But while the city alone could keep a traveler busy for weeks, locals say that nothing can compare to the Rosario Islands when it comes to beauty. These 27 different islets off the Cartagena coast are home to white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. 

That's a lot of islands to choose from, so benefit from local advice . Our trip planners in Colombia can help design a guidebook that fits how your travel style. 

Isla Grande

The largest of the Rosario Islands, locals say that Isla Grande is everything you could wish for in a Caribbean escape—gorgeous turquoise waters and pure sandy beaches, all without the crowds of some of its more popular neighbors. 

Here, locals say you'll find a strong sense of  Colombia’s unique culture . Isla Grande is also home to the Laguna Encantada (the Enchanted Lagoon). Don't miss out on what makes this place so special—our trip planners tell us that the Laguna Encantada's  bioluminescent plankton light up the water and make the lagoon glow.

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Isla majagua.

Isla Majagua is located just 45 minutes away from Cartagena . This serene Colombian paradise is small, offering visitors a more secluded beach experience; it's the ideal place to lay around in the sun, sip on some fresh fruit juice, and snorkel along the shore. You can even snorkel off the shore of Pablo Escobar’s old vacation estate nearby!

Isla Fuerte

Around 90 miles from Cartagena, Isla Fuerte is one of the lesser-known Rosario Islands and a haven for nature lovers hoping to venture off Colombia's beaten path . The island boasts phenomenal surfing and swimming conditions, but don’t stop there— get local advice about the hiking paths through the island’s tropical forests to hidden caves, rumored to house buried pirate treasure! Our trip planners can help you discover this magical spot. 

Other Rosario Islands

There are 24 other Rosario Islands which you may want to add to your  Cartagena itinerary . Which one best fits your travel style? You'll know more after getting some local insider knowledge from one of our Colombian trip planners. 

Hoping to embrace Colombia’s famed party scene ?  Locals tell us  you’ve got to make a trip to Cholon. Largely unknown to tourists and only 45 minutes from Cartagena, it's an incredible place to explore. Locals tell us Cholon is pretty quiet during the week—but lights up during the weekends with party-goers. Drink, dance, and feast on some freshly grilled seafood.

Colonial forts, beautiful beaches, and unmatched views of Cartagena’s oceanfront gems make Tierra Bomba a perfect escape. 

Additionally, there are numerous island resorts and hotels scattered along Tierra Bomba’s beaches, including the Blue Apple Beach House , a well-known French boutique hotel boasting quaint local architecture and incredible food. Locals say the 10-minute boat ride to Tierra Bomba will only run you around $4 USD and is well worth it.

Located 50 miles south of Cartagena, San Bernardo is a virtually untouched Caribbean paradise where few travelers venture. 

San Bernardo is actually a chain of ten different islands, with Mucura being the most popular with visitors for its remarkably still water for snorkeling and swimming. And if you’re feeling adventurous, locals suggest stopping by Santa Cruz—the most densely populated island on Earth!

If you’re looking for the spitting image of a Colombian postcard beach, locals suggest making the trip to Playa Blanca! Fine white sand, crystal clear waters, and a plethora of luxury resorts and spas earn Playa Blanca its reputation as the most beautiful beach in Cartagena . Since Playa Blanca is located around 40 minutes from Cartagena on the nearby peninsula of Isla Baru, locals recommend traveling there by boat or shuttle bus.

Looking for more info?

And for more on Colombia travel, check out our articles on: 

• The Best Places To Visit In Colombia
• Cartagena Safety
• Colombia Visa Requirements

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New York on two wheels: What to know about the Five Boro Bike Tour

May 5 marks the 46th Five Boro Bike Tour in the city. Less than a year after the New York City Marathon became a five-borough course, the city’s cyclists decided to do their own version of the idea.

The first Five Boro Bike Tour took place in 1977, with only around 200-250 participants . Now, over 32,000 riders take part in what organizers say is more of a community than a competition.

What is the Five Boro Bike Tour?

The Five Boro Bike Tour is the cyclist’s annual opportunity to enjoy 40 miles of car-free roads in the city, including the chance to ride on city highways.

Bike New York, the nonprofit that manages the tour, says it’s the largest charitable bike ride in the world, with the proceeds funding free bike education programs.

When is the bike tour?

The tour starts on the morning of Sunday, May 5. The first waves start as early as 7:30 a.m. All cyclists will set off by 10:30 a.m.

The time it takes to complete the tour depends on your bicycle and experience level. Most cyclists report anywhere between three to five hours.

Where does the tour take riders?

Cyclists start the 40-mile, traffic-free route by gathering in Lower Manhattan and making their way up Sixth Avenue. The tour stretches through Central Park and Harlem before briefly crossing into the Bronx. It then makes its way along FDR Drive before going across the Queensboro Bridge into Long Island City. Next is a trip across the Pulaski Bridge into Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Then, the tour travels onto the BQE and the Gowanus Parkway, and then heads onto the lower level of the Verrazzano Bridge and into Staten Island.

At the end of the line is the Finish Festival at Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island. Participants are treated to live music, food trucks and photo opportunities.

Are there any major street closures to be aware of?

Yes, there are a number of closures in each of the five boroughs. A full list can be found here .

Can I still sign up?

Unfortunately, registration closed on April 12, but there are spots in each borough for spectators to cheer on and support cyclists along the route.

Cheer zones include Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard in Harlem, 138th Street and Third Ave in Mott Haven, off the exit of the Queensboro Bridge in Long Island City, near Seventh Street in Williamsburg and at the finish line at Fort Wadsworth.

I’m already signed up, but I don’t know where my start point is. What do I need to do?

Those registered should have received their wave assignment, including their start time and point of entry to the route, via email. They were emailed out between April 26 and April 29.

Also included in the email are the times and location riders can pick up their participation packet. It includes the racer ID plate and helmet cover required to take part in the tour.

For all other questions on the tour, head here .